When I’m on vacation, I don’t count calories. And you can’t in Hawaii, because the local treats never tend to be good for you.
I’ve really lost my sweet tooth in the last 5 years. I’ve had a few root canals and to be honest, it cured me of my love of sugary things…. But today I’m going to introduce you to one of my favorite donuts.. It’s technically a malasada and of Portuguese origin. You can find them at Leonard’s Bakery, which is a mandatory stop every time I’m in Honolulu. The donuts are served up warm with all the loose bits of sugar that cling to your fingers. I’ve been a bit of a purist, not welcoming any kind of filling in my malasada, but this year Brent convinced me the custard filling is worth a try. The day we went to Leonard’s, Brent was also home from Boston and I think even he will admit, distance makes the heart grow fonder…
There are also monthly flavors, so you’re looking at the passion fruit filling. I wish it had a little less inside, so the gooey filling didn’t overpower the donut. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still delicious. My advice, buy at least two while you’re there.
What’s the best donut you’ve ever eaten? I’d love to know where we can find your favorites!
I also ‘tried’ to make a pomelo salad, but I couldn’t find this elusive fruit and I used a pink grapefruit instead. Unfortunately, it didn’t hold up well. This salad also had fried shallots and garlic, toasted coconut, scallions, cilantro, peanuts and a dressing of fish sauce, lime juice and sugar. Next time I get my hands on a pomelo, I’ll be sure to take a photo of the finished product. 
The day after the tsunami watch we had yellow flag conditions and it was calm enough to go out. In case you’re wondering, the paddle board is about 11′ feet long and wider than a traditional surfboard. The dimensions help stabilize things, but all the same, I’ll wait to learn until there are absolutely flat water conditions!! D got a 15 minute crash course along with his rental and it seemed to be all he needed to get started.
I stayed on terra firma with my camera. D later confided it took a lot of core strength to maintain his balance and he was beat even before his 30 minute rental was up! The Swiss-born instructor said he would tired that night and boy, he was right! 
I apologize for the dreadful photos, he went out in the midday sun. I do love this one photo from around sunset, the light on the resting boards is just lovely.
When you’re pro at paddle boarding it looks *SO* easy. So easy, even a dog can do it!
The next two are also from the Halekulani:
